When November evenings call for comfort food, this Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta is a quick, easy, and satisfying choice. With earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and a luscious garlic cream sauce, it’s a meal that feels fancy without the fuss—perfect for a weeknight treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 30 Minutes: Ideal for busy evenings.
- Rich and Comforting: Creamy, garlicky goodness in every bite.
- Customizable: Add protein like chicken or keep it vegetarian.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
The Pasta:
- 300g (10 oz) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne work well)
The Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 200g (7 oz) mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix), sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Extras:
- Optional: 1 cup cooked chicken or shrimp
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, for a spicy kick
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make It
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Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.
-
Sauté the Mushrooms:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Make the Sauce:
- Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, then add the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
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Add Spinach:
- Toss in the spinach and stir until wilted. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
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Serve:
- Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat if desired.
Why This Recipe Works
- Balanced Flavors: The savory mushrooms and Parmesan pair perfectly with the creaminess of the sauce.
- Versatile: Add chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit with family or guests.
Quick Tips
- Boost Flavor: Use a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan before adding cream.
- Cheese Substitute: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a bolder taste.
- Make it Vegan: Use plant-based cream and cheese, and skip the Parmesan.
This Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta is the ultimate cozy, indulgent meal for a cold November night. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, and you’ve got the perfect dinner to warm your soul.
Enjoy your meal! 😊